Tesla Model Y variants and pricing (2026)
There are two Model Y variants available in Australia in 2026. Both qualify for the FBT exemption — neither comes close to the $91,387 luxury car tax threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles.
What does a Tesla Model Y novated lease actually cost?
Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your salary, which running costs you include in the package, and the lease term. The key principle: every dollar of the lease payment comes from pre-tax income, which means the government effectively subsidises a portion of every repayment through income tax savings.
The table below shows estimated annual savings for the Model Y RWD over a 3-year lease at 7.5% p.a., including a standard running cost package (comprehensive insurance, registration, servicing, and home charging).
Full worked example — $100,000 salary, Model Y RWD, 3 years
Model Y RWD vs Long Range — which is better for a novated lease?
From a pure novated lease perspective, both variants are equally exempt from FBT. The decision comes down to whether the extra $12,500 in vehicle cost is worth the benefits you get.
The Long Range adds 78 km of range and significantly faster charging — useful if you regularly drive more than 400 km in a day or want faster DC fast charging stops. For typical commuter use (under 80 km/day), the RWD is sufficient and the lower cost means lower lease repayments and a lower residual to deal with at the end of the term.
The RWD sits $32,487 under the LCT threshold, giving it substantial headroom if Tesla adjusts pricing. The Long Range has $12,987 of headroom — still comfortable, but worth monitoring if pricing changes mid-lease.
Tesla Model Y vs other EVs on a novated lease
The Model Y's main competitors in the novated lease space are the BYD Sealion 7 (~$54,990) and the Zeekr 7X (~$57,900). The BYD offers better value on paper but the Model Y's Supercharger network — now the largest fast-charging network in Australia — is a genuine practical advantage for long-distance driving. The Zeekr 7X offers 800V ultra-fast charging at up to 450 kW for those who regularly need rapid top-ups.
All three are under the LCT threshold and fully FBT exempt. The choice is more about your driving needs than the tax outcome. See our full EV comparison guide for a side-by-side breakdown.
How to get a Tesla Model Y on a novated lease
- Confirm your employer offers salary packaging — most medium and large employers do
- Use our calculator below to estimate your exact savings based on your salary
- Get quotes from 2–3 novated lease providers — compare interest rates and admin fees, which vary significantly
- Choose your variant and colour via Tesla's website; provide the order details to your provider
- Your provider coordinates the paperwork with your employer — typically takes 1–2 weeks